Sony is constantly refreshing its portable wireless speaker line-up to offer top-selling audio options that come with good after-sales service, last long and come with a lot of tech chops. One of the new arrivals is SRS-XB13, which is compact, sturdy, offers punchy bass and is rated IP67 for dust- and water-proofing. It seems like a perfect speaker for listening to music on the verandah without having to worry too much about splashes. Gyanendra Singh, head of audio, Sony India, spoke about all things sonic!

Gyanendra Singh, head of audio, Sony India Sourced by the correspondent

Has the audio segment seen a surge during the extended lockdown?

In the personal audio segment, work from home (WFH), learn from home (LFH) and workout at home… all these phenomena have given further impetus to the already strong demand for headphones. In addition, in the same household many people are involved in such activities and their need for personal space has also led to spike in sales of active noise cancellation (ANC) devices. So, more and more consumers are looking for good quality ANC headphones and earphones. The sale for truly wireless earbuds has also been very strong. Bluetooth speakers, the versatile device, is also finding favour amongst lot of consumers for varied usage during the lockdown.

As people use Bluetooth speakers and other audio-related devices often, do you see any demand in terms of features?

Yes, the Bluetooth speaker is a versatile device, consumers use it for online learning and workout at home scenarios. Bluetooth speakers which support karaoke are well utilised during lockdown for quality/fun time with family.

Lossless audio and spatial audio are two things that people are talking about. Any product you would recommend taking full advantage of the technology?

We believe that there is upsurge in demand for high-quality music experience over a wide range of demographics and that audio hardware compatible with hi-res will be crucial in bringing about new demand in the audio products market. With special focus on the younger demographic, we are working closely with record labels to increase the amount of hi-res content available and to undertake more promotion efforts meant to increase awareness. Many Android OS products, like smartphones already have LDAC compatibility, therefore consumers can enjoy wireless hi-res audio with Sony audio devices via LDAC, such as Sony’s WH-1000XM4 industry leading noise cancellation headphones.

SRS-XB13. Why do you think it will be a hit among youngsters?

SRS-XB13 has a very compelling proposition and we expect youngsters will go for SRS-XB13 because of its great sound quality, portability (multi-way strap) and it can be your companion for outdoor and poolside (dustproof and waterproof). The SRS-XB13 is better balanced than its predecessor by delivering surround sound with sound diffusion processor and our focus on the mid-range that makes vocals very easy to hear and a great wallop of bass for a speaker of its size.

At a glance

Device: Sony SRS-XB13

Price: Rs 3,990

• Sony’s Extra Bass technology makes a passive radiator work with a full-range speaker to enhance low-end tones, boosting the bass.

• Waterproof and dustproof (IP67 rating)

• Incorporates Google’s fast-pair technology that allows you to quickly connect compatible Android smartphones or tablets

• Comes in pink, blue, taupe and black